Crystal Pouncey
Sep 12, 2023 - 04:35

Aaron Rodgers injury prompts renewed call for NFL grass over turf

Green Bay Packers left tackle David Bakhtiari calls for natural grass fields in all NFL stadiums after Aaron Rodgers' injury.

In the wake of Aaron Rodgers' injury during Monday's game, his former teammate David Bakhtiari wasted no time in expressing his thoughts on the matter. The Green Bay Packers' left tackle immediately called for all NFL stadiums to switch to natural grass fields.

Rodgers was forced to leave the game against the New York Jets after being tackled on his first drive. It appeared that his left ankle got caught in the turf, leading to his departure from the field on a cart. He was later seen wearing a walking boot, and while X-rays came back negative, the results of an MRI on Monday will determine if there is any soft tissue or ligament damage.

The idea of natural grass fields in NFL stadiums is not a new one. Over the years, artificial turf has evolved significantly, with some arguing that it is safer than playing on natural grass. However, others believe that natural grass is the way to go, especially in light of injuries like Rodgers'. Bakhtiari pointed out that NFL stadiums hosting World Cup games in 2026 will be required to have natural grass, and he believes that all NFL stadiums should follow suit. This includes stadiums like SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and AT&T Stadium in Dallas, which currently have artificial turf.

MetLife Stadium has faced criticism in the past due to a number of injuries suffered by San Francisco 49ers players during a game against the Jets in 2020. As a result, officials installed new turf during the offseason. However, it is not natural grass. Instead, it is the latest version of artificial turf known as the FieldTurf Core system, which boasts advanced technology.

While this may be a step in the right direction for some, it does not satisfy those who are staunchly against the use of any kind of artificial turf. Rodgers, Jets fans, and others who have long criticized artificial turf are not comforted by this technological advancement. They continue to advocate for the installation of natural grass fields in NFL stadiums, believing it to be the safest option for players.